Designation of 3.5 new highway miles signals economic growth, mobility, interstate trade in the tri-state region.

TEXARKANA — In an effort to enhance mobility and encourage interstate trade in the region, the Texas Department of Transportation, with approval from the Texas Transportation Commission and in partnership with the Alliance for I-69 Texas, today officially designated 3.5 miles of US 59 as the new I-369 spur. The designation means drivers will now see I-369 highway signs on US 59. Being developed on existing roadways as a critical artery for moving freight, I-69 will ultimately become a 1,600-mile-long highway stretching from Michigan to Texas.

“This marks a milestone for Texas, especially Texarkana, as the signs unveiled today symbolize growth, connectivity and economic development for a critical region of our great state,” said Texas Transportation Commissioner Jeff Austin. “Texarkana’s geographic proximity to our neighbors in Arkansas and Louisiana makes this designation an important step forward as we continue to create ways to safely mobilize a growing population while nurturing this region’s economic prosperity.”

With approximately 1,000 newcomers arriving in Texas each day, I-69 also will help accommodate the state’s growing population.

“As the booming population of Texas continues to add more vehicles to our roads, we must find ways to keep motorists moving safely and efficiently,” said TxDOT Executive Director Phil Wilson. “An interstate designation carries the highest design standard of any class of highway, so we are proud to have more miles of I-69 added to the map in Texas.”

The new I-369 spur runs along the existing US 59 for 3.5 miles, beginning at I-30 and continuing to South Lake Drive (State Highway 93). The new I-369 is the third interstate highway for the Texarkana area and will improve mobility for the region’s growing population while enhancing economic development and increasing the state’s ability to attract major industries in order to better compete in the global marketplace.

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The Texas Department of Transportation is responsible for maintaining 80,000 miles of road and for supporting aviation, rail, and public transportation across the state. Through collaboration and leadership, we deliver a safe, reliable, and integrated transportation system that enables the movement of people and goods. Find out more at TxDOT.gov. "Like" us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter.